answersLogoWhite

0

(excerpted from Howstuffworks.com) X-rays are a form of ionizing radiation. When normal light hits an atom, it can't change the atom in any significant way. But when an X-ray hits an atom, it can knock electrons off the atom to create an ion, an electrically-charged atom. Free electrons then collide with other atoms to create more ions. An ion's electrical charge can lead to unnatural chemical reactions inside cells. Among other things, the charge can break DNA chains. A cell with a broken strand of DNA will either die or the DNA will develop a mutation. If a lot of cells die, the body can develop various diseases. If the DNA mutates, a cell may become cancerous, and this cancer may spread. If the mutation is in a sperm or an egg cell, it may lead to birth defects. Because of all these risks, doctors use X-rays sparingly today. They are helpful in that x-radiation helps diagnose and treat illnesses in humans, pets and other animals. It is also an important part of scientific research, agriculture and countless industrial uses, such as the inspection of welds in construction, car manufacturing and aircraft maintenance.

User Avatar

Anya Kub

Lvl 10
3y ago

What else can I help you with?

Related Questions

How x rays and g rays are same?

they are not the same but both are waves and both can be harmful to humans if received in high quantities. Though gamma rays are more harmful than x-rays.


Is water irradiated with X-rays harmful for us?

yes it is harmful


How is ultraviolet light X-rays and gamma rays harmful to a person?

If im right X-rays can move you molicuse aroud and can kill you.


What kills harmful bacteria in food gamma rays or x-rays?

Gamma ray


Would you die without x-rays and gamma rays from space?

No; you don't need such rays. In fact, they can be quite harmful.


Are multiple chest x-rays harmful to a 5 year old?

no


What kind of waves are harmful to living things?

All high frequency radiation e.g. X rays , gamma rays etc. are harmful to living things .


Why are gamma rays and X-rays harmful to students?

Gamma rays and X-rays are harmful to students because they are forms of ionizing radiation that can penetrate the body, damaging cells and DNA. This can increase the risk of cancer and other health problems, depending on the level of exposure. It is important for students to limit their exposure to these types of radiation to protect their health.


What type of electromagnetic wave is considered harmful to humans?

These are ultraviolet rays, x-rays and gamma rays.


Gamma rays and x rays are useful when used in?

Well , Gamma rays and X rays are both harmful and destructive in nature , but have significant advantages. 1. Gamma rays can destroy cancer cells and can treat cancer patients. 2. X rays can be used to check the human body for fracture , to treat the patient.


X rays are they harmful when wearing a piercing?

No. X-Rays are only harmful in large doses: high levels of radiation can corrupt the genetic coding of your cells. That is why the person operating the X-Ray machine always sits behind a shield. A piercing would not make any difference.


What types of waves, such as ultraviolet or X-rays, are harmful to humans and what are the reasons behind their harmful effects?

Ultraviolet (UV) and X-ray waves are harmful to humans because they have high energy levels that can damage cells and DNA. UV rays can cause sunburn and skin cancer, while X-rays can penetrate the body and cause tissue damage. It is important to limit exposure to these types of waves to protect our health.